OSU alumnus Olin Hannum hired as athletic bands director

July 29, 2016

CORVALLIS, Ore. - Olin Hannum, director of the California Aggie Marching Band at the University of California, Davis, and an OSU alumnus, has been hired as director of athletic bands at Oregon State University.

Hannum is the seventh director in the history of the OSU Marching Band, which will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2016-17. He fills the vacancy left by Dana Biggs, who has taken a position with the marching band at Virginia Tech.

"We are honored to have Olin with us as we celebrate our 125th year as a band program. We'll have a new marching band director and new uniforms and the same great tradition," said OSU's Director of Bands, Christopher Chapman.

Hannum earned a master of arts in teaching degree at Oregon State University in 2011 and worked as a graduate assistant with the athletic and symphonic band programs during his previous time at OSU.

During his five years at UC Davis, Hannum increased the membership of the marching band to a record 322 participants. The ensemble was featured at its first National Football League game and developed a state-wide performance presence. In addition to leading the marching band, he directed the University Campus Band, a symphonic style concert ensemble, while at UC Davis.

In addition to his teaching degree, Hannum holds a bachelor's degree in horn performance from UC Davis. He has also appeared with the Golden State Wind Ensemble and the San Francisco Wind Ensemble.

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